tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764Sun, 29 Mar 2015 22:37:09 +0000Columbus CrewBlack and GoldEditorialVideoGame Preview2008 VictoriesLOLZMorning AfterthoughtsToronto F.C.Guillermo Barros SchelottoTransfersDayton Dutch Lions F.C.NordeckeRumorsEmilio RenteriaHumor2008 LossesCONCACAF Champions LeagueNCRCommentaryCrewture CCTVThe Goatsmassive radioAndres MendozaCrew TrialistReview2008 Draws2008 PlayoffsCrewture MixtapeCruz AzulGuilleMLS GeneralTFCTrillium CupUtter Raging Stupidity from the Office of Don GarberCrew NewsCrew vs. TolucaGame RecapPicturesPost gameSaprissaThe People's Ratings2008 MLS Cup ChampionsBright DikeDilly DukaJeff CunninghamNews2010 SuperdraftContract NegotiationsFront OfficeMcJudasNew York Red BullsOlympicsRobbie RogersRogersSongsSuper FrankTaylor WomanmarblesCrew signingFrankie HejdukGimnasiaIncomingLamar Hunt U.S. Open CupLeandre GriffitMLS transfersOffseasonPhiladelphia UnionRobert WarzychaSergio HerreraTFC fansUSMNTVenezuelaAlejandro MorenoBas EntCSCColumbus Crew vs. Real Salt LakeConcacaf UpdatesCrew HistoryCrew PlayoffsCrew StadiumD.C. UnitedEmmanuel EkpoExpansion DraftGino PadulaHead CoachHistoryHouston DynamoJed ZaynerPeruvian StrikerReal Salt LakeRefereesSeattle SoundersSpeculationStern JohnUSA USMNTArgentinaBen SpeasBoca JuniorsCBACrewtureColumbus Crew Soccerhttp://crewonespot.blogspot.com/noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)Blogger5335125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-2588202979067791635Wed, 25 Feb 2015 20:24:00 +00002015-02-25T12:24:31.397-08:002.25.2015: Rivalry SnubFrom <a href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2015/02/25/vote-whats-best-rivalry-mls-cast-your-ballot-now-ahead-next-weeks-rankings">Major League Soccer</a>: <br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gKJyL23k_xc/VO4uoDJLYLI/AAAAAAAACZ0/yroHkpOGcAI/s1600/rivalries.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gKJyL23k_xc/VO4uoDJLYLI/AAAAAAAACZ0/yroHkpOGcAI/s1600/rivalries.png" /></a> <br /><br />No Columbus vs. Chicago on the list, or on a <a href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2015/02/25/vote-whats-best-rivalry-mls-cast-your-ballot-now-ahead-next-weeks-rankings">backup list here</a>. But, NYCFC vs. New York Red Bull can be considered the BEST rivalry even though they have never played a game? Is Major League Soccer retarded?http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/02/2252015-rivalry-snub.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-152940890126844146Thu, 12 Feb 2015 03:31:00 +00002015-02-11T19:43:06.669-08:002.11.2015: Robert Kristo's Trial In Italy Successful<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version="4" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://instagram.com/p/yR_PgUFO1Y/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">Crazy I can now call this place home #laspezia #cinqueterre #italy</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A photo posted by croatiannation7 (@croatiannation7) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2015-01-25T14:56:26+00:00">Jan 25, 2015 at 6:56am PST</time></p></div></blockquote><script async defer src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>The 6'4 Robert Kristo won't be heading in goals for the Columbus Crew this season, instead his devastating aerial ability (<a href="https://translate.google.com/translate?sl=auto&amp;tl=en&amp;js=y&amp;prev=_t&amp;hl=en&amp;ie=UTF-8&amp;u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cittadellaspezia.com%2FLa-Spezia%2FSport%2FKristo-si-e-fermato-a-Spezia-l-176058.aspx&amp;edit-text=&amp;act=url">as mentioned by his new coach</a>) will be on display at 7th place Serie B side Spezia Calcio.<br /><br />In a way though, Columbus Crew can look at it (and Berhalter mentioned in a way he is) as an extended loan; as in most cases,&nbsp;eventually every American player ends up back in Major League Soccer.<br /><br />Kristo won't be looking at it that way though.<BR><BR>And if there was one player not to bet against, it looks like this guy. <br /><br />Kristo was confident that he was going to Italy, that his trial would be successful, and he would be signed. That's an excellent sign of his mental character. Very determined kid. <br /><br />You hope for great success in Europe for a young American player such as Kristo. But, if he finds himself with the wrong coach or team in the future, Columbus may be an attractive option.http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/02/2112015-robert-kristos-trial-in-italy.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-2115337414507599781Tue, 10 Feb 2015 16:08:00 +00002015-02-10T08:11:55.697-08:002.10.2015: VIDEO- Columbus Crew SC 2015 Signings<br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="481" mozallowfullscreen="" src="//player.vimeo.com/video/119208954" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="600"></iframe> <br /><br />Been a slow week in preseason news. Here's a video of our 2015 signings, something to get pumped up for the home opener against Toronto.http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/02/2102015-video-columbus-crew-sc-2015.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-329340601845841667Tue, 27 Jan 2015 04:38:00 +00002015-01-26T20:44:16.453-08:001.26.2015: Could Columbus Be In For Yura Movsisyan?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oghi02mVfpI/VMcQklSvlcI/AAAAAAAACYg/kASRZ0Pyf2E/s1600/yura.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oghi02mVfpI/VMcQklSvlcI/AAAAAAAACYg/kASRZ0Pyf2E/s1600/yura.jpg" height="275" width="400" /></a>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2015/01/26/transfer-watch-former-real-salt-lake-striker-yura-movsisyan-linked-move-back">Major League Soccer</a> website's transfer watch&nbsp;is saying there is a team making a move for Yura Movsisyan. <span style="font-size: small;">The Columbus Crew may be out of international transfer spots, but could they be looking to incorporate some more firepower up front with a green card in hand. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">If so, Movsisyan would be a delightful option. He's made the Russian Premier League look like an Indoor Soccer League with his strike rate there (44 goals in 82 overall games).</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">﻿</span></div><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Iy7t5Ivqrko" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />Yet,&nbsp;with <a href="http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11661/9338636/transfer-news-premier-league-clubs-chasing-spartak-moscows-yura-movsisyan">English Premier League interest this past Summer</a>, I doubt Spartak Moscow would let Yura&nbsp;go cheaply; Probably why the Major League Soccer side that made the offer was turned down.<br /><br />Still if you were to go for broke, and wanted someone that could finish chances, Yura Movsisyan would be an excellent,&nbsp;green card target.<br /><br />A sort of target that you could say "there you go, we are done with our offseason. Let's go win a trophy." But, I guess that depends on how ambitious Columbus Crew SC&nbsp;are in their first season rebranded.<br /><br />**In other news, <a href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2015/01/26/report-juan-agudelo-nearing-return-new-england-revolution">Juan Agudelo is also in negotiations with MLS again</a>.<br /><br />Not as interested in Agudelo. But,&nbsp;would like&nbsp;the Crew&nbsp;to be a little more aggressive and throw their hat in the ring for another player&nbsp;up top. I think the Crew are one credible striker away from a complete team.http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/01/1262015-could-columbus-be-in-for-yura.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-6778154431114988706Wed, 21 Jan 2015 06:08:00 +00002015-01-20T22:12:35.456-08:001.20.2015: Crew's Berhalter Makes A Smart Move For Robert Kristo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HYc1Th0kW1M/VL81uOIbfPI/AAAAAAAACYA/AgHPiMT20kc/s1600/robertkristo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HYc1Th0kW1M/VL81uOIbfPI/AAAAAAAACYA/AgHPiMT20kc/s1600/robertkristo.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div><br />Some call him Robert, or Robbie, or Roberto Kristo; either way the 3rd Round Pick for the Columbus Crew will not be in a Crew jersey soon. The highly rated forward out of St. Louis University, is <a href="http://americansoccernow.com/articles/top-prospect-robbie-kristo-bypasses-mls-for-italy">headed to the Serie B in Italy</a>. <br /><br />American Soccer News reported that the deal was a done one on December 24th, 2014 with a Serie B club, but the club in question&nbsp;hasn't been mentioned. <br /><br />But, Kristo's Instagram&nbsp;hints it's&nbsp;Serie B side <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vicenza_Calcio">Vicenza Calcio</a>; as Kristo <a href="http://instagram.com/p/xTYld5FO4o/?modal=true">tweeted an Instagram New Years picture mentioning Vecenza, Italy</a> (which umm&nbsp;doesn't exist). But, Vicenza, Italy has a Serie B club called Vicenza Calcio.<br /><br />Vicenza, who were just promoted, are doing well enough so far&nbsp;in Serie B in 14th place. Yet, are only&nbsp;five points ahead of the relegation places. <br /><br />If you're hoping to see Kristo in Crew Stadium soon, the best bet is Vicenza&nbsp;has a bad second half of the season and get relegated; then&nbsp;they may be looking to release some players and now Berhalter calls with Kristo's rights in hand.<br /><br />Or they get relegated and a non-established Kristo doesn't get any other calls, and doesn't find Serie C&nbsp;(now known as Lega Pro Prima)&nbsp;as sexy.<br /><br />Either way, while you hope for a young American prospect to be successful, Serie B may not work out&nbsp;and it may not even have to do with&nbsp;Kristo, who&nbsp;appears to have&nbsp;tons of potential, but instead the situation.<br /><br />“He could potentially be signing in Italy right now,” Berhalter told&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dispatch.com/content/blogs/covering-the-crew/2015/01/kristo.html">Adam Jardy&nbsp;this afternoon</a>. “We know that. Worst-case scenario, if he did end up signing and he plays a year there or a year and a half there and wants to come back, we own his rights.”<br /><br />15 hours ago, Kristo posted this picture of him headed to Italy:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tTYZN2HLeVk/VL9BSyySA0I/AAAAAAAACYQ/iRvWOHN7LxQ/s1600/robertkristo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tTYZN2HLeVk/VL9BSyySA0I/AAAAAAAACYQ/iRvWOHN7LxQ/s1600/robertkristo.png" height="338" width="640" /></a></div><br />If you shook the snow globe of possibilities, my dream scenario&nbsp;now for&nbsp;mid-Summer&nbsp;is Miroslav Klose, with two hungry strikers that have confidence, have scored goals in college like Sagi&nbsp;Lev-Ari and Robert Kristo behind him learning. <br /><br />That makes a lot more sense if you want to get serious about scoring, than what we've had.http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/01/1202015-crews-berhalter-makes-smart.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-3917761466735263654Wed, 21 Jan 2015 04:45:00 +00002015-01-20T21:11:03.988-08:001.20.2015: Miroslav Klose Would Make Columbus A Contender, But I Still Find That Dreamland Unlikely<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xqoddqn2yk0/VL8sm6wedZI/AAAAAAAACXw/XXAQdeHJIlw/s1600/miroslavklose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xqoddqn2yk0/VL8sm6wedZI/AAAAAAAACXw/XXAQdeHJIlw/s1600/miroslavklose.jpg" height="320" width="233" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div>The home opener against Toronto FC on March 14th might be a big time event now&nbsp;with Jozy Altidore and Michael Bradley coming to town.<br /><br />It's unlikely to be because the Columbus Crew have signed a star to lead their line. But, wait a star linked to Columbus&nbsp;(with no facts or resources for said rumor) <a href="http://playingfor90.com/2015/01/20/mls-rumors-miroslav-klose-coming-columbus-crew/">Go to link!</a> <br /><br />Who started this, well the German Bild <a href="https://translate.google.com/translate?sl=auto&amp;tl=en&amp;js=y&amp;prev=_t&amp;hl=en&amp;ie=UTF-8&amp;u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bild.de%2Fsport%2Ffussball%2Fmiroslav-klose%2Fwill-nicht-zu-werder-39356594.bild.html&amp;edit-text=">mentioned Klose contact for Klose with Major League Soccer</a>.. <br /><br />And then Crew fans ran with it taking to Twitter, and proclaiming&nbsp;Columbus, home of the Nordecke and German Village,&nbsp;must be&nbsp;one of the MLS teams in&nbsp;for the German (well, sort of&nbsp;German)&nbsp;Miroslav Klose.<br /><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">BREAKING: President Obama announces Miroslav Klose will sign 2 year $4 million contract with Columbus Crew of MLS. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StateOfTheUnion?src=hash">#StateOfTheUnion</a><br />— MassiveCity (@MassiveCityFFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/MassiveCityFFC/status/557731198773235712">January 21, 2015</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script><br /><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">Miroslav Klose coming to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CrewSC?src=hash">#CrewSC</a> &gt;&gt;&gt; Ohio State winning the national championship. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KloseToColumbus?src=hash">#KloseToColumbus</a><br />— Matt Yoder (@myoder84) <a href="https://twitter.com/myoder84/status/557643907664982017">January 20, 2015</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script><br /><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SchmidtsCbus">@SchmidtsCbus</a> Can you send Miroslav Klose a care package full of cream puffs and a Crew jersey? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KloseToColumbus?src=hash">#KloseToColumbus</a><br />— Beppe (@buckitalian) <a href="https://twitter.com/buckitalian/status/557597913833308162">January 20, 2015</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script><br /><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">Just caught up with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CrewSC?src=hash">#CrewSC</a> boss Gregg Berhalter to discuss today's draft and other things. Yes, I asked him about Miroslav Klose.<br />— Adam Jardy (@AdamJardy) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamJardy/status/557642232254464000">January 20, 2015</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>Let's just say when you've scored the most goals&nbsp;in World Cup history, and&nbsp;71 goals&nbsp;in 137 appearances for Germany,&nbsp;your still in demand at 36. To get in on the fun #KloseToColumbus<br /><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">Berhalter on Klose: "I would say what I've been saying all along is I'm not going to comment on players that aren't on our roster." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CrewSC?src=hash">#CrewSC</a><br />— Adam Jardy (@AdamJardy) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamJardy/status/557642636220465152">January 20, 2015</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>Well, at least Berhalter, didn't laugh&nbsp;and/or spit out his&nbsp;morning coffee or cappuccino.<br /><br />The&nbsp;36 year old Klose is looking for a move; as he&nbsp;is currently&nbsp;not enjoying&nbsp;life at Lazio, where <a href="http://www.goal.com/en-us/news/86/italy/2014/12/28/7462812/klose-feels-like-an-old-table-thrown-in-the-cellar">he described himself</a>, in December, as an "old table thrown into the cellar."<br /><br />In addition, <a href="https://translate.google.com/translate?sl=auto&amp;tl=en&amp;js=y&amp;prev=_t&amp;hl=en&amp;ie=UTF-8&amp;u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bild.de%2Fsport%2Ffussball%2Fmiroslav-klose%2Fwill-nicht-zu-werder-39356594.bild.html&amp;edit-text=">The German Bild said that Klose will not return to his former club, current&nbsp;relegation battlers Werder Bremen</a>,&nbsp;or to any Bundesliga team. But,&nbsp;instead his destination is likely to&nbsp;be the United States. <br /><br />But, where to? <br /><br />If Columbus is really giving it a go, signing Klose and&nbsp;the much more likely Argentine right back Grana&nbsp;would put them at 9 internationals (1 over the limit).<br /><br />If that's the case the Columbus Crew would have to trade for an international slot; or at the end of preseason, part ways with&nbsp;the draftee that has&nbsp;impressed less out of&nbsp;Sergio Campbell or Lev-Ari; Or Federico Higuain, or one of the Crew's&nbsp;two aforementioned&nbsp;draft picks&nbsp;may be&nbsp;very Klose to a green card.<br /><br />Either way it's fun to dream. <br /><br />Having someone like Klose wearing the Crew jersey would be a honor. Also, Lev-Ari, who I think will surprise and make the team, is a poacher&nbsp;who could learn a lot&nbsp;from a year or two behind a&nbsp;great poacher in&nbsp;Klose. That may not be a bad idea.<br /><br />In addition, if your trying to jumpstart a new brand, having the top goalscorer in World Cup history in your shirt isn't a bad way to do it.<br /><br />But, despite the Crew's new Bundesliga-like logo and the fact that Lazio isn't exactly Roma, Juventus, or AC Milan,&nbsp;therefore Klose might not demand to be in the largest market; I would still expect him to&nbsp;go to&nbsp;a bigger market with a DP slot left, like a&nbsp;New York Red Bull or even perhaps the Vancouver Whitecaps.<br /><br />Still after a nice move for fullback Chris Klute, who knows what Berhalter and Precourt may have up their sleeves. http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/01/1202015-miroslav-klose-would-make.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-7601229490765070842Tue, 13 Jan 2015 18:52:00 +00002015-01-13T11:28:13.957-08:001.13.2015: Mix Diskerud & His Yankee Hats Sign For NYCFC<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FX_U2mOr118/VLVqjFl709I/AAAAAAAACXQ/ghK4XRMo-Qk/s1600/dweeb.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FX_U2mOr118/VLVqjFl709I/AAAAAAAACXQ/ghK4XRMo-Qk/s320/dweeb.png" height="305" width="640" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Major League Soccer putting a big name in a big city, well I be damned.<br /><br />Mix Diskerud looks lottery winning happy though&nbsp;signing with NYCFC (above). A club with so much history and passion. In fact,&nbsp;Mixy looks like a seven year old child that got the toy he wanted for Christmas. Quite. Because he now works at Yankee Stadium and can get all the Yankee hats that he can get his super cool,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-97dYQSvKo">fruit juggling hands on</a>.</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">As&nbsp;you may be aware, at&nbsp;one point this Summer, the Columbus Crew were excruciatingly close to signing U.S. international Mix Diskerud. But, it didn't happen so better things can for Diskerud and his Yankee fitted's. </div><div style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/sites/league/files/imagecache/620x350/image_nodes/2015/01/mix_yankeehat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.mlssoccer.com/sites/league/files/imagecache/620x350/image_nodes/2015/01/mix_yankeehat.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">A&nbsp;Columbus Clippers hat just&nbsp;doesn't have the same appeal. The same swag, you feel? <br /><br />Well,&nbsp;don't show&nbsp;Mix <a href="http://www.strictlyfitteds.com/blog/2012/02/custom-new-era-x-milb%E3%80%8Ccolumbus-clippers%E3%80%8D59fifty-fitted-baseball-cap">this strictly fitted, Clipper hat</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.strictlyfitteds.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/city-columbus-clippers-59Fifty-Fitted-Baseball-Cap-new-era_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.strictlyfitteds.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/city-columbus-clippers-59Fifty-Fitted-Baseball-Cap-new-era_3.jpg" height="244" width="320" /></a></div>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Overall, Mix Diskerud has spent <a href="https://twitter.com/DougMacESPN/status/555035033418100737">$2,219 dollars and 26 cents on Yankee hats</a>. Well, that's not just a little OCD, can't think of any better use for over two grand.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BmeWc-2IIAAv43R.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BmeWc-2IIAAv43R.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">No Pirates&nbsp;fitted though, isn't that hat 101?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When he comes to Columbus, we should make a big hat tifo that says? Post your thoughts @CrewtureFanzine</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;">﻿</div>http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/01/1132015-mix-diskerud-his-yankee-hats.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-3407970399608096051Mon, 12 Jan 2015 20:44:00 +00002015-01-12T21:08:45.424-08:001.12.2015: Crewture's Crew SC 2015 Mock Draft Analysis, First Round<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Gregg Berhalter needs to do much, much better in this draft.</span>&nbsp;Columbus had the same #14&nbsp;pick last year and picked Ben Sweat, who played once in the U.S. Open Cup, and then was shipped off to the Dayton Dutch Lions. The other picks were not much better.&nbsp;Fifi Baiden (42 overall) was sent to the same place and was released by Columbus after&nbsp;just one&nbsp;season. Adam Bedell (45 overall), scored two goals in&nbsp;sixteen appearances, but wouldn't be called an answer up front yet.&nbsp;At #14&nbsp;again this Thursday, Berhalter should look for a player&nbsp;that can come in and make an impact. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Strikers are undervalued in the draft and usually written off, unless they're <a href="http://www.uconnhuskies.com/sports/m-soccer/mtt/cyle_larin_855126.html">that one player being hyped</a>. The Crew may find an impact player at that position.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X9fMjTg_qYM/VLQsbKWUToI/AAAAAAAACWk/MF-JGAQJipk/s1600/levari.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X9fMjTg_qYM/VLQsbKWUToI/AAAAAAAACWk/MF-JGAQJipk/s1600/levari.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Pick #14:&nbsp;Sagi Lev Ari, Dzenan Catic, or&nbsp;Miguel Aguilar-</span> </strong><br />Everyone is&nbsp;saying&nbsp;that it would be best for the Columbus Crew to pick up some defensive talent in the 2015&nbsp;MLS Draft,&nbsp;that can prosper under Michael Parkhurst and Emmanuel Pogatetz.<br /><br />But, I don't see anyone extremely worthwhile that is going to make it to pick #14, unless Ramon Martin del Campo (who's had a sluggish combine) drops that far. And even then he might not&nbsp;be a sure thing or worth it.<br /><br />U.S. U-23 Ramon Martin del Campo, who&nbsp;was seen as&nbsp;the most likely center back in this&nbsp;draft to succeed,&nbsp;could either not make it&nbsp;to #14 or be bypassed by all (opinions change when team officials finally see someone firsthand). <br /><br />He could&nbsp;be&nbsp;selected by&nbsp;#3 pick Montreal Impact, who are in need of center backs. If not, it&nbsp;may be hard for&nbsp;#4 San Jose&nbsp;to pass&nbsp;up their own product (they know&nbsp;del Campo&nbsp;best, have seen him firsthand, and can make a decision based on all of his work). Martin del Campo played his PDL ball at San Jose Earthquakes.<br /><br />If San Jose says "no thanks" despite all of their hands on time with del Campo,&nbsp;it may be a while.<br /><br />Axel Sjolberg would be available at #14. But, the big argument for him&nbsp;going to Columbus sits on the whole he's Swedish and Berhalter coached in Sweden and knows&nbsp;the language&nbsp;thing, but really Sjolberg can go anywhere because he obviously knows English as well (played&nbsp;three years at Marquette). <br /><br />It's kind of a weak overall argument to sign someone based on their language, instead the focus should be on does the talent fit into the system Berhalter plays?<br /><br />Sjolberg reminds me defensively of Tyson Wahl,&nbsp;if so he&nbsp;may not be the best type of defender for possessing the ball out of the back and working it up.<br /><br />Sjolberg is a&nbsp;tall, thin, not&nbsp;overally quick center back with perhaps a little more coordination and skill on the ball if compared to Wahl. He's a&nbsp;much better&nbsp;threat offensively on corners, a good header of the ball both in the offensive and defensive end.<br /><br />And, actually his 6'7 frame and the havoc he could create in the box might make him more useful as a Jan Koller-type target forward. You think I'm joking, but in need of a goal in the last 10 minutes, he could be good in&nbsp;the box.<br /><br />That was the most impressive part of his video for me as a defender (as some of his highlight&nbsp;interceptions and tackles took a friendly bounce to a teammate instead of an opponent):<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/NMpwrmQpsCY" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />Either way, I'm not convinced that the Columbus Crew's biggest need in the draft&nbsp;is central defense or that the Crew will find what they want&nbsp;in a center back apprentice at #14. I don't think the Crew will go #14 at right back two years in a row or there is an attractive enough left back.<br /><br />Instead it could be argued that forward is just as big, or&nbsp;the biggest need. Look at up top, we have&nbsp;Kei Kamara, Aaron Schoenfeld, and Adam Bedell. <br /><br />The only decent threat up top out of the three of them is possibly&nbsp;Kei Kamara, 52 MLS goals in 193 appearances. But, it's been a while since&nbsp;Kamara has been in MLS or played (he hasn't played a competitive game since last Spring). Since 2013, Kamara has only&nbsp;scored 5 goals in 36 appearances in England. <br /><br />Kamara&nbsp;could come back and not&nbsp;put much into the net, who do we turn to then?<br /><br />Compared to striker, at least at center back we have two strong starters in Michael Parkhurst and Emmanuel Pogatetz, with Tyson Wahl receiving a lot of minutes as well last season. Further, Berhalter if he needs&nbsp;center back&nbsp;depth has had a lot more success acquiring talent at center back than he has had at striker. So far Berhalter has acquired&nbsp; Parkhurst, Pogatetz, and Giancarlo Gonzalez at center back.<br /><br />As a result, perhaps&nbsp;it's easier to attract a high quality defender to Columbus. So,&nbsp;what would stop Berhalter from acquiring another (younger) center back&nbsp;before the 2015 season, if necessary?<br /><br />On the other hand, if it was so easy for Berhalter to sign a serious striker, you think he would've waited this long to do it? So, why not try to unearth one in the draft?<br /><br />A few intrigue me from what I've read and from their stats.<br /><br />Sagi Lev Ari&nbsp;is intriguing&nbsp;and would be available. 42 goals in 64 games for Cal St. Northridge says to me pure finisher. He's 25, has been in the Isreali Army, he's mature, and he's an obvious finisher type forward from his video.<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/j6RqT7S4yLo" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />Not every goal is pretty, but for Columbus it's been difficult for most of their strikers to finish chances (straightforward or not). I think Lev Ari is capable of putting what are midfield and Higuain sets up into the back of the net, in a simple manner. <br /><br />Dzenan Catic is also another, 63 goals in 47 games for (NAIA) Davenport is not only impressive, but ridiculous. I've&nbsp;covered three NAIA Championships and it's still a good level.&nbsp;Someone in Lev Ari or Dzenan Catic that has stuck the ball in the back of the net so many times&nbsp;will have confidence that they can do it anywhere (or at least more than a striker that never has). Either way, I think&nbsp;both would be more prolific&nbsp;compared to Schoenfeld and Bedell, and perhaps Kamara who's only been a 1 goal every 4 games striker in MLS.<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/RJC22CVgLEU" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />In another manner, if&nbsp;Columbus are&nbsp;looking to take the pain away from not acquiring Cedrick. Miguel Aguilar, if he makes it to #14 with the combine he's had, also&nbsp;is worth a look and then some. He's listed as a forward, but is more likely a winger and could be a heck of a rookie replacement for the loss of Bernardo Anor if his combine form can continue.&nbsp;Aguilar&nbsp;could also be&nbsp;converted to a back position possibly.<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/xzgEuYtNa5c" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />The thing is Lev-Ari or Catic would be an upgrade more than likely over our other forwards after Kei Kamara, and may be more useful than Kamara now (who knows?).&nbsp; Even if our midfield is good, Aguilar would improve the squad and make it better. <br /><br />On the other hand, I don't know if any defender available&nbsp;will be an answer to our back line depth issue.<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Trade Up:</span> </strong>Columbus doesn't pick again until the second round, #35. I could see trading up into the #15-#25 range for Aaron Simmons or Jose Rivas if Berhalter thinks one of them could&nbsp;slot in for Waylon Francis when he's at the Gold Cup.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ir4u1tNaVfE/VLQgIVBIBoI/AAAAAAAACWY/hdmOZaTnlJ8/s1600/AaronSimmons.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ir4u1tNaVfE/VLQgIVBIBoI/AAAAAAAACWY/hdmOZaTnlJ8/s1600/AaronSimmons.png" height="311" width="400" /></a></div><br />Gregg Berhalter likes guy's with versatility and that give him options. Simmons is a guy that would give Berhalter options, a&nbsp;player that has played central defense and midfield for UCLA, but with his size and speed could easily be converted to an outside back in MLS and would likely be a more natural fit there. If Berhalter values Simmons, and is going the safe route in this draft, I can see him going as well at #14 (more likely than Sjolberg who doesn't really fit into a possession type, out of the back play that Berhalter likes). But, Simmons also only started 16 out of 24 games for UCLA in his Senior year, so is he a #14 pick?<br /><br /><div class="snappytv-embed" style="padding-bottom: 37px; padding-top: 56.25%; position: relative;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="100%" mozallowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" src="http://www.snappytv.com/snap/aaron-simmons-first-goal-of-the-year-from-brian-iloski-about-men-s-soccer-ucla-at-stanford-on-pac-12-bay-area_x0" style="position: absolute; top: 0px;" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="100%"></iframe><br />Either way, in the draft expect the unexpected. Not very often, past the first few picks, does the mock drafts go as planned. So, that's why I wouldn't be surprised if the Crew address forward depth instead.</div>http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/01/1122015-crewtures-crew-sc-2015-mock.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-1450910328450184193Thu, 08 Jan 2015 06:01:00 +00002015-01-08T00:16:31.214-08:001.8.2015: Osasuna May Have to Part With Cedrick for Other Reinforcements<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kX7Dn7DVQyg/VK4c594bG8I/AAAAAAAACVs/ZtseFZiSjEk/s1600/cedrick3.png" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Photo by </em><span style="background-color: #e6ecf9;">MIKEL SAIZ</span></span></div><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;">It's the middle of the Spain's Segunda Division season. Osasuna are currently 11th, 5 points off from a promotion playoff, 6 points&nbsp;ahead of&nbsp;relegation.</span> Relegated last year,&nbsp;Osasuna are&nbsp;going to have to shake the team up,&nbsp;move a couple people if they want to return to La Liga. They need to make up for their goal differential, they need more goals in the second half of their season&nbsp;to&nbsp;balance&nbsp;an atrocious defense. Think Liverpool last season, scoring a lot more is the only way to success. Their&nbsp;29 goals allowed over the first half of the year only beats out relegation battlers CE Sabadell (32 allowed), Barcelona B (34 allowed), and Albacete Balompie&nbsp;(36 allowed). Their goal forwarded amount&nbsp;is 25, which isn't bad but the 9th best output. 9th best scoring, with 19th best defense, if that continues&nbsp;Osasuna won't be anywhere near the promotion spots or promotional-playoff hunt. They'll stick around their current position of 11th out of 22 teams.&nbsp;If it gets worse, they could be in the relegation hunt, 19th place UE Llagostera is only six points back. <br /><br />A&nbsp;local journalist embedded with the team&nbsp;wrote&nbsp;the most insightful&nbsp;article a few days back; <a href="https://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&amp;sl=es&amp;tl=en&amp;u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.noticiasdenavarra.com%2F2015%2F01%2F05%2Fosasuna%2Fosasuna-se-opone-a-la-salida-de-cedrick&amp;sandbox=1">as according to Natalia Perez with News of Navarra</a>,&nbsp;Osasuna wants to&nbsp;strengthen their squad in the winter market (no surprise after that intro)&nbsp;and can only do so if outgoing players leave early in the month. In addition, Osasuna&nbsp;are trying to lessen the amount of players on their books that count as internationals. But, Cedrick isn't exactly the international that Osasuna had in mind to be on the way out. Or Osasuna just says that as they haven't made a firm decision on which internationals they can part ways with and which ones they&nbsp;need to&nbsp;hold onto.<br /><br />Osasuna has said in several articles that they&nbsp;value&nbsp;Cedrick's speed, they see it as a difference maker&nbsp;in a team that lacks pace. Because of this&nbsp;Osasuna are focusing on possibly&nbsp;moving other internationals. At least, that's what they're hinting at in this article, and&nbsp;have been by driving their valuation of Cedrick up, through mentioning his use to the squad.<br /><br />The article implies instead of moving Cedrick...<br />Osasuna&nbsp;wants to&nbsp;(move)&nbsp;make a decision on the futures of Cameroonian defensive midfielder Raoul Loe, Iranian striker Karim Ansarifard, and Algerian center back Liassine Cadamuro.<br /><br />BUT,&nbsp;the article also&nbsp;mentions that Osasuna still haven't made up their minds on the future of Cedrick. So,&nbsp;Osasuna has said no&nbsp;BUT not loudly or firmly. There's a theme of this, <a href="https://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&amp;sl=es&amp;tl=en&amp;u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.vavel.com%2Fes%2Ffutbol%2Fosasuna%2F432968-osasuna-frena-la-salida-de-cedrick-hacia-estados-unidos.html&amp;sandbox=1">in this article</a> Osasuna says they've rejected the deal,&nbsp;UNLESS<strong>&nbsp;</strong>they get a bigger deal to convince the club to part ways with&nbsp;Cedrick.<br /><br />Osasuna has time to make a deal (about a week) so they're just posturing for the best move they can make for Cedrick. But, either way,&nbsp;Osauna's needs&nbsp;to&nbsp;make room for other targets, especially international targets.<br /><br />So, in the end they may have no choice but to accept the Crew's original offer.<br /><br />Still, let's play Osasuna's game for a while.&nbsp;Let's say&nbsp;Osasuna&nbsp;are looking for more money from Columbus,&nbsp;because they value Cedrick more compared to the other three internationals. Let's say they truly rather keep Cedrick around&nbsp;because of his speed.&nbsp;Yet&nbsp;if no one else listed above (essentially on the transfer list) goes then Osasuna needs to part ways with Cedrick; especially&nbsp;before The African Cup of Nations, or they have virtually no way to improve their team as they desire&nbsp;and reach promotion. <br /><br />That's if&nbsp;Osasuna&nbsp;believes&nbsp;they have a target (or targets) that can get them closer to promotion&nbsp;than Cedrick (and other&nbsp;mentioned internationals) can.<br /><br />Overall, Cedrick has made 14&nbsp;appearances in 19 matches, which could seem pretty substantial as he's made a mark in nearly 75% percent of the games. Yet, most were either&nbsp;as a substitute&nbsp;or an early exit as he has only logged 697 minutes; if Cedrick started all fourteen games he would be nearly double that at 1260 minutes.&nbsp;He has three assists,&nbsp;but Cedrick's&nbsp;supposed to be a dangerous winger. His three assists&nbsp;equate to a&nbsp;contribution&nbsp;in 1 out of every 8.3 Osasuna goals. Despite potential, that output should be expendable for a team in Osasuna's situation.<br /><br />But, that depends on how Osasuna expects to improve to 6th or better.<br /><br />To do so&nbsp;wouldn't be&nbsp;with defensive acquistions, it's probably not the&nbsp;best move&nbsp;to integrate someone into the back four in the middle of the&nbsp;season, unless your pretty confident&nbsp;in that person. If it goes south your not in 11th, your in 19th. Instead, Osasuna's best chance to move up is to improve their offense&nbsp;by acquiring international&nbsp;transfers that up the goal total amount. <br /><br />This is why Cedrick could leave.<br /><br />Osasuna shouldn't have a problem with letting go of a winger that contributes to 1 out of every 8.3 goals for the club, for one that contributes to 2 or&nbsp;2.5 out of every 8 goals. Or moving him for another international striker to come in and possibly help score more goals. Since Cedrick is only getting about 1/3 the minutes at his position, 697 of a total 1710 minutes, Osasuna could&nbsp;just replace&nbsp;him with&nbsp;the winger currently on the team sharing time with Cedrick anyway.<br /><br />To me it sounds like if there is no interest in the other three, they'll have to accept Columbus's deal to try to improve their own&nbsp;team. I'm sure a few days before January 17th we'll hear one way or the other.&nbsp; January 17th Cedrick is on duty with&nbsp;the Democratic Republic of Congo in the African Cup of Nations, and that will last two to three weeks. A bad month could push&nbsp;Osasuna further back and Cedrick can't even contribute. So, it might be wise for Osasuna to try to find someone that can.<br /><br />Betis favors the option&nbsp;of Cedrick going to Columbus&nbsp;(probably because it gets Cedrick off their books) but Osasuna has to accept it as well. And although some news outlets <a href="https://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&amp;sl=es&amp;tl=en&amp;u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.vavel.com%2Fes%2Ffutbol%2Fosasuna%2F432968-osasuna-frena-la-salida-de-cedrick-hacia-estados-unidos.html&amp;sandbox=1">have reported that Osasuna has rejected the offer outright</a>, I think there's a lot of thinking (like I tried to do above) going on.<br /><span class="notranslate">&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/01/182015-osasuna-may-have-to-part-with.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-2502003789482063728Wed, 07 Jan 2015 08:55:00 +00002015-01-07T19:59:54.705-08:001.7.2015: Cedrick Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yPheYP5Uzmw/VKzzBvFXhDI/AAAAAAAACVE/NDjhmeA30Qg/s1600/cedrickgrande.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yPheYP5Uzmw/VKzzBvFXhDI/AAAAAAAACVE/NDjhmeA30Qg/s1600/cedrickgrande.jpg" /></a></div><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">I come over? Maybe, maybe not?</span></em><br /><em><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></em><br />On January 3rd multiple reports had the Columbus Crew putting an offer down for 22 year old&nbsp;Real Betis/Osasuna&nbsp;winger Cedrick. No idea what the offer is or the compensation for Real Betis or Osasuna, yet&nbsp;<a href="https://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&amp;sl=es&amp;tl=en&amp;u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mlssoccer.com%2Fes%2Fnews%2Farticle%2F2015%2F01%2F06%2Fse-dice-en-europa-cedrick-mabwati-es-pretendido-por-el-columbus-crew-sc-pero">FutbolMLS&nbsp;stated Tuesday&nbsp;that Cedrick would be fine with trying his luck with MLS or respecting any decision the two Spanish clubs make</a>, but doesn't mention a source. Vavel Spain said Monday&nbsp;that <a href="https://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&amp;sl=es&amp;tl=en&amp;u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.vavel.com%2Fes%2Ffutbol%2Fosasuna%2F432968-osasuna-frena-la-salida-de-cedrick-hacia-estados-unidos.html&amp;sandbox=1">Osasuna isn't interested in departing with Cedrick&nbsp;and&nbsp;Cedrick&nbsp;isn't interested in a move to Major League Soccer</a>. On top of that, Osasuna rejected the initial offer.<br /><br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/YVGfNVORO8Y" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />Even if FutbolMLS ran across another source on the internet, Osasuna isn't budging either way.<br /><br />Osasuna doesn't believe they're getting enough compensation, in the middle of their season, to find a suitable replacement. They would also have to&nbsp;integrate that replacement into their team. <br /><br />In addition, Osasuna&nbsp;values Cedrick and would like to keep him on for the remainder of the original loan deal that expires June 30th. <br /><br />Sounds dead in the water, but possibly a solution can be reached with a better deal, if Vavel's reporting that Cedrick "frowns on a move to MLS" is pure B.S.; Vavel is pretty legitimate so it's probably not.http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/01/172015-cedrick-update.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-7759762541362504338Wed, 07 Jan 2015 08:10:00 +00002015-01-07T00:46:26.387-08:001.6.2015: The Five Worst MLS Signings (So Far) This Offseason<div style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />The Major League Soccer offseason signings this year have been a bit underwhelming. But, it's surprising that scouts (if MLS teams have such a thing) scouted these guys and gave them the big thumbs up. It's even more&nbsp;astounding that the coaches didn't say "meh, why don't we wait and see if something better comes along?" Most of all it's stupefying that the MLS Front Office signed off on giving some of these guys paychecks. </div><br />What&nbsp;would've&nbsp;made more&nbsp;sense..&nbsp;Instead of these&nbsp;bums, would be&nbsp;to put another American college kid on the roster, where one might develop into a star, not an insurance salesman.<br /><br />Without further delay, the 5 Worst MLS Signings (So Far) This Offseason:<br /><br />1.) The Chicago Fire's Guly do Prado. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WU13HiW5nl0/VKzyNEp8XnI/AAAAAAAACU4/yrTR07ucDqg/s1600/guly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WU13HiW5nl0/VKzyNEp8XnI/AAAAAAAACU4/yrTR07ucDqg/s1600/guly.jpg" /></a></div>A 33 year old Brazilian, released from Southampton last May of&nbsp;2014. For the last seven months he's been without a club. The only kicking&nbsp;Guly's been doing is kicking it on the couch.<br /><br />Guly&nbsp;has found the net every once in a while. He's&nbsp;scored 19 goals in 103 games for Southampton,&nbsp;nearly all were&nbsp;pre-Premier League. For 9 clubs over 12 years he's scored 52 goals in 250 matches. <br /><br />So, the Chicago Fire are paying a 1 goal every 5 games,&nbsp;33 year old striker; who is likely very rusty and in atrocious soccer shape. <br /><br />Yikes.<br /><br />2.) Orlando City's&nbsp;Gustavo "The Refrigerator" Silva. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.mercadofutebol.com/files/gustavo-gcom470_0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.mercadofutebol.com/files/gustavo-gcom470_0.jpg" height="242" width="320" /></a></div><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">I'm going to pump, you up!</span></em><br /><br />A 28 year old defender considered by Flamengo fans in Brazil as the worst player in club history. Only lasted six games, before being shipped off to the Brazilian second division. He's most recently played in the Brazilian third division for Villa Nova,&nbsp;where Orlando City finally picked him up (with a crane).<br /><br />3.) Chicago Fire's&nbsp;Adailton <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/sites/league/files/imagecache/620x350/image_nodes/2014/12/Adailton%20DL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.mlssoccer.com/sites/league/files/imagecache/620x350/image_nodes/2014/12/Adailton%20DL.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">31 year's old. Played in the Swiss Second Division, before returning to Brazil's Bahia where he made four appearances the entire 2014&nbsp;season. The value and upside to this transfer&nbsp;are&nbsp;currently alluding&nbsp;me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I&nbsp;feel like this is who is doing Chicago Fire's player valuations: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://thumbs.dreamstime.com/x/business-baby-typing-8459222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://thumbs.dreamstime.com/x/business-baby-typing-8459222.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;I really think an agent is duping a lot of MLS clubs into shitty Brazilians, with cool names.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div align="left">﻿</div><br />4.) NYCFC's Andres Mendoza Uza <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/sites/league/files/imagecache/620x350/image_nodes/2015/01/BellezaMendoza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.mlssoccer.com/sites/league/files/imagecache/620x350/image_nodes/2015/01/BellezaMendoza.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">"Hey sorry about Frank Lampard" but here's a 28 year old who has had a pretty underwhelming career in Ecuador, and most recently played&nbsp;in the&nbsp;hidden talent gem, the&nbsp;Second Division&nbsp;of Uruguay. Why even bother with a press release?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5.) The Portland Timbers Jeanderson.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B4WWas0IMAAtNNz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B4WWas0IMAAtNNz.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;Jeanderson was plying his trade in what is considered the 5th division of Brazil.</div><br />Why he ranks&nbsp;fifth in this list&nbsp;is because at least Jeanderson is 23, Caleb Porter&nbsp;may be able to&nbsp;work a miracle here.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">But, overall, I think we've gone back to MLS circa 2005 with some of these deals. Is there a worse transfer that I missed&nbsp;so far that belongs on the list? What deal do you think is the dumbest? Tweet @CrewtureFanzine.</div>http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/01/162015-worst-offseason-moves-so-far-by.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-8878704615198192681Wed, 07 Jan 2015 06:30:00 +00002015-01-06T23:28:56.596-08:001.6.2015: So Far, Berhalter's Offseason Work Far Exceeds Other MLS Clubs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SbMK6BTAB9A/VKy9yJg8o5I/AAAAAAAACUo/zHlWTvHPE_c/s1600/Swanson_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SbMK6BTAB9A/VKy9yJg8o5I/AAAAAAAACUo/zHlWTvHPE_c/s1600/Swanson_7.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>Columbus Crew SC boss Gregg Berhalter started his 2015 club transformation early.<br /><br />He missed out on <a href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/08/07/columbus-crew-fall-agonizingly-short-bold-swoop-usmnt-mix-diskerud">Mix Diskerud during the August transfer window</a>.<br /><br />But, on September 8th, Berhalter&nbsp;<a href="http://www.si.com/soccer/planet-futbol/2014/09/08/columbus-crew-emanuel-pogatetz-kei-kamara">added 31 year old Austrian international&nbsp;Emmanuel Pogatetz to replace Giancarlo Gonzalez</a>.&nbsp;On October 7th Berhalter then&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thecrew.com/news/2014/10/crew-signs-forward-kei-kamara">captured MLS journeyman Kei Kamara</a>, through&nbsp;the decision to use&nbsp;his&nbsp;allocation&nbsp;spot to nab the proven Major League Soccer striker.<br /><br />Kamara returns to Columbus after a eight year hiatus, his last two stops were in England with Middlesborough and Norwich City.<br /><br />Before those moves&nbsp;Berhalter quietly<a href="http://www.thecrew.com/news/2014/08/crew-signs-us-youth-international-midfielder-romain-gall"> nabbed the&nbsp;highly touted US U-20 International&nbsp;Romain Gall in a weighted lottery</a>.<br /><br />Then on&nbsp;October 16th, Berhalter graduated Crew academy top prospect, Ben Swanson. Swanson is one of the top U-18 players in the country and has been in the Crew residency program since the age of nine, a rarity and then some&nbsp;outside of top European academies.<br /><br />It will be exciting to see&nbsp;how&nbsp;Berhalter&nbsp;fits&nbsp;the&nbsp;seventeen year old Grove City, Ohio kid into the plans&nbsp;over the 2015 season, along with the nineteen year old Gall. <br /><br />But, Berhalter didn't stop there. Still alive in the 2014 playoffs, the Crew Manager still had eye's on the future.<br /><br />On October 29th, days before the home leg of a playoff with the New England Revolution, Berhalter&nbsp;signed the just turned 24, Swede midfielder Mohammed Saeid. A West Brom product; the&nbsp;defensive midfielder had 68 appearances, 7 goals with Swedish First Division side Orebro over the past two seasons. <br /><br />Saeid is also capable of the big moments:<br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/sJnpojhLQ-8" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />On December 11th, Berhalter went back to his Swedish contacts, and signed 24 year old <span dir="auto">Kristinn Steindórsson. Another Swedish First Division player, with 77 appearances and 16 goals over the last two seasons with Halmstads BK.</span><br /><span dir="auto"></span><br /><span dir="auto">Here's Steindorsson having some fun against Saeid's club Orebro:</span><br /><span dir="auto"></span><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="277" mozallowfullscreen="" src="//player.vimeo.com/video/90744883" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /><br />Then&nbsp;on January 3rd multiple reports have the Columbus Crew putting an offer down for 22 year old&nbsp;Real Betis/Osasuna&nbsp;winger Cedrick. The offer apparently is around one million, <a href="https://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&amp;sl=es&amp;tl=en&amp;u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mlssoccer.com%2Fes%2Fnews%2Farticle%2F2015%2F01%2F06%2Fse-dice-en-europa-cedrick-mabwati-es-pretendido-por-el-columbus-crew-sc-pero">and reports from today state that Cedrick would be fine with trying his luck with MLS or respecting any decision the two Spanish clubs make.</a> <br /><br />Cedrick has blistering pace and is good on the ball, would be an excellent winger replacement for Bernardo Anor:<br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/YVGfNVORO8Y" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />On January 5th, the Columbus Crew re-signed Federico Higuain to a multi-year deal. <a href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2015/01/05/columbus-crew-sc-reward-designated-player-federico-higuain-largest-contract-">The largest deal in club history.</a><br /><br /><a href="http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/01/162015-crew-after-south-american-rb.html">The Crew are also rumored to be searching for a South American right back to fill that hole from last season.</a><br /><br />I would prefer a player like Argentinian 26 year old right back Gaston Diaz: <br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/psg4mY4cUZc" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />So, to recap on players picked up almost exclusively for 2015 and beyond:<br />-31 year old Austrian center back Emmanuel Pogatetz (61 caps with Austria)<br />-30 year old striker&nbsp;Kei Kamara (around 200 caps, 50 goals already in MLS)<br />-24 year old Icelandic midfielder Kristinn Steindorsson &nbsp;(77 appearances in the Swedish First Division over the prior two seasons)<br />-24 year old Swedish midfielder Mohammed Saeid (68 appearances in the Swedish First Division &amp; Second Division&nbsp;over the prior two seasons)<br />-19 year old American midfielder Romain Gall (top U.S. U-20 product)<br />-17 year old American midfielder Ben Swanson (top U.S. U-18 product)<br /><br />If the Columbus Crew can add Cedrick and a top quality South American right back, Berhalter will have all his shopping nearly done well before training camp begins.<br /><br />What should make you more happy is comparing&nbsp;Columbus signings&nbsp;to recent business of other teams..<br /><br />The Chicago Fire just signed today, striker Guly do Prado. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.allstarpl.com/webimages/football/THUMBS/gar/t-gar71830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.allstarpl.com/webimages/football/THUMBS/gar/t-gar71830.jpg" /></a></div>A 33 year old Brazilian, released from Southampton last May of&nbsp;2014. Has been without a club for&nbsp;the last seven months. Prado has scored 19 goals in 103 games for Southampton, nearly all pre-Premier League. 52 goals overall in 250 matches for 9 clubs over 12 years. Yikes.<br /><br />So, the Chicago Fire are paying a 1 goal every 5 games,&nbsp;33 year old; who is likely very rusty and in atrocious soccer shape.<br /><br />Orlando City threw some cash at Brazilian defender Gustavo "The Refrigerator" Silva. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.mercadofutebol.com/files/gustavo-gcom470_0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.mercadofutebol.com/files/gustavo-gcom470_0.jpg" height="242" width="320" /></a></div><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Andy Iro is that you?</span></em><br /><br />A 28 year old defender considered by Flamengo fans in Brazil as the worst player in club history. Only lasted six games, before being shipped off to the Brazilian second division where Orlando City finally picked him up.<br /><br />The big club NYCFC signed Ecuadorian 28 year old&nbsp;defender&nbsp;Andres Mendoza Uza <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/sites/league/files/imagecache/620x350/image_nodes/2015/01/BellezaMendoza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.mlssoccer.com/sites/league/files/imagecache/620x350/image_nodes/2015/01/BellezaMendoza.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Who has had a pretty underwhelming career in his native Ecuador, and most recently played&nbsp;in the&nbsp;hidden talent gem, the&nbsp;Second Division&nbsp;of Uruguay</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Portland Timbers signed 23 year old Brazilian defender Jeanderson.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B4WWas0IMAAtNNz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B4WWas0IMAAtNNz.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div>Jeanderson was plying his trade in what is considered the 5th division of Brazil.<br /><br />So, overall, compared to the scouting and decision making of some MLS clubs, I like where Berhalter is going. <br /><br />http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/01/162015-so-far-berhalters-offseason-work.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-1379154659509367783Wed, 07 Jan 2015 04:19:00 +00002015-01-07T01:00:17.103-08:001.6.2015: Former Columbus Crew Player Daniel Paladini Charged With Six Counts in Domestic Abuse Case<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Picture credit: Sum Lau﻿</span></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cPGdA7wEtJ8/VKyh9-Id3-I/AAAAAAAACUM/zaiFEaVEESY/s1600/danielpaladini.jpg" height="320" width="319" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Former Columbus Crew midfielder Daniel Paladini was charged with three counts of domestic abuse and three counts of&nbsp;assault today, <a href="http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/sports/2015/01/06/former-crew-player-domestic-charges.html">according to The Columbus Dispatch</a>. Paladini had the police called on October 28th for a reported domestic abuse&nbsp;of his fiancée Sarah Alexander. </div><div align="left">&nbsp;</div><div align="left">Paladini and Alexander are pictured&nbsp;to the&nbsp;left&nbsp;at a party during his time with&nbsp;Major League soccer outfit,&nbsp;Chicago Fire. The couple met during his time with that club.</div><div align="left">&nbsp;</div><div align="left">On October 29th, the league was informed of the incident, that spanned three days. The league suspended Paladini with pay.</div><div align="left">&nbsp;</div><div align="left">On November 3rd, the Columbus Crew and the league made the suspension&nbsp;with pay public.</div><div align="left">&nbsp;</div><div align="left">On November 18th, Paladini was one of seven Crew players whose option was declined.</div><div align="left">&nbsp;</div><div align="left">Prior to these events, Paladini broke his leg on September 16th and as a result was sidelined for the rest of the 2014 season. He kept upbeat, posting to twitter that "it would not stop him." </div><div align="left">&nbsp;</div><div align="left">Yet, fiancée Alexander told Gahanna police that Paladini was struggling with his situation. That Paladini, according to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/sports/2015/01/06/former-crew-player-domestic-charges.html">The Columbus Dispatch's article</a>,&nbsp;became "increasingly violent and upset over the previous few weeks from dealing with stress from the injury and his contract being almost up."</div><div align="left">&nbsp;</div><div align="left">Before the injury, Paladini made four appearances for the Columbus Crew, three as a starter.</div><div align="left">&nbsp;</div><div align="left">The incidents with fiancée Sarah Alexander&nbsp;were alleged to occur on three consecutive days from October 26th to October 28th. The Columbus Dispatch report of what occurred&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/sports/2015/01/06/former-crew-player-domestic-charges.html">was rather disturbing</a>.</div><div align="left">&nbsp;</div><div align="left">Paladini, from <a href="https://twitter.com/paladinixi">looking at his twitter</a> has kept close to family in the meantime and has done&nbsp;some traveling to San Francisco and back home.&nbsp;Sarah Alexander's <a href="https://twitter.com/TheBellaSarah">twitter has her back in Chicago</a>. From the looks of things the couple does not appear to be still together.</div><div align="left">&nbsp;</div><div align="left">A pretrial hearing is set for January 14th.</div><br />http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/01/162015-former-columbus-crew-player.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-1386560635353463575Tue, 06 Jan 2015 19:31:00 +00002015-01-06T22:56:00.307-08:001.6.2015: Crew After South American Right Back, Possible Targets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's been rumored that&nbsp;the Columbus Crew are finally closing in on a right back. This&nbsp;tweet mentions&nbsp;the Crew are after&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/ChadHoll/status/552200861020348416">a South American right back.</a> But, it may not be <a href="https://twitter.com/TabakmanS/status/545620813345730560">previously rumored&nbsp;twenty-nine year old Boca Juniors right back Hernan Grana</a>. So, here's a list of other South American right back options the Crew could pursue or be in the pursuit of in addition to Grana:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ciDocdsj64/VKwxSq6phSI/AAAAAAAACT4/31hZH35g75M/s1600/gastondiaz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ciDocdsj64/VKwxSq6phSI/AAAAAAAACT4/31hZH35g75M/s1600/gastondiaz.jpg" height="400" width="347" /></a></div><strong>Argentinian Gaston Diaz, 26, Right Back,&nbsp;On Loan with Racing until December 31st, 2015, then back to Gimnasia. </strong>Has made 19 appearances for Racing Club in 2014,&nbsp;wasn't in&nbsp;Gimnasia's overall plans.<br /><br />Boxes Gaston would check off:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" /></a></div>Argentine and has Guillermo Barros Schelotto connection- Made 13 appearances with Lanus in Schelotto's debut season. Schelotto could give a decent scouting report; and depending on relationship with Gaston, Schelotto could&nbsp;recommend Columbus.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" /></a></div>Has all the tools- What you would look for in a right back. Good pace, aggressive at getting up the line. Good build, above average crosser and passer of the ball.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" /></a></div>Good age- Still has re-sale value at 26, compared to if the Crew were going after Boca Juniors Grana.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.clker.com/cliparts/Q/j/y/O/o/c/nxt-checkbox-checked-not-ok-hi.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.clker.com/cliparts/Q/j/y/O/o/c/nxt-checkbox-checked-not-ok-hi.png" height="50" width="50" /></a></div>Some off the field, DUI problems. Can't seem to stick at one club recently since his early days with Velez Sarsfield. But, on a positive note,&nbsp;brings down the price tag a little.<br /><br /><br />Racing may be looking to keep ahold of&nbsp;Gaston since they won the first half of the season with him, but possibly for the right price he could be plied away&nbsp;since he's still owned by&nbsp;Gimnasia (part of the reason for the loan to Racing appears to be financially related, Racing paying most of the players wages).&nbsp;Gaston may see America as a new challenge and may be worth top money to help solidify&nbsp;our&nbsp;back line in a real place of need.<br /><br />He was a top player this past <a href="http://www.footballrants.com/international/argentinas-torneo-de-transicion-best-xi-player-of-the-season-awards/9115">Torneo in Argentina</a>. But, he hasn't been entirely consistent over multiple years, he is a right back/not an attacking player, for a very&nbsp;solid transaction fee to Gimnasia/Racing in a similar&nbsp;vain to Cedrick&nbsp;and a very good wage in Major League Soccer it's a possibility. Crew need to think a bit bigger this year. Would definitely fill the final gap, if you think Kamara will fill the gap up top.<br /><br />Either way, this little clip is worth a&nbsp;viewing.<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/psg4mY4cUZc" width="560"></iframe><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zSKic3Ui9dE/VKwYTuHUBcI/AAAAAAAACTo/zZzbFHv6wnk/s1600/ludo.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zSKic3Ui9dE/VKwYTuHUBcI/AAAAAAAACTo/zZzbFHv6wnk/s320/ludo.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><strong>Brazilian Guilherme Choco, 24, Right Back. Out of contract with Ludogorets since January 1st, 2015</strong><br /><strong></strong><br />Boxes Choco would check off:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" /></a></div>Correct age- So far Gregg Berhalter has made two overseas signings in Icelandic midfielder Kristinn Steindorsson and Swedish defensive midfielder&nbsp;Mohammed Saeid. Both are 24, Choco is 24.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2Fletsbreakthegridlock.com%2Fwp-content%2Fthemes%2Ftorontoboard%2Fimages%2Fcheckbox_checked.png&amp;container=blogger&amp;gadget=a&amp;rewriteMime=image%2F*" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2Fletsbreakthegridlock.com%2Fwp-content%2Fthemes%2Ftorontoboard%2Fimages%2Fcheckbox_checked.png&amp;container=blogger&amp;gadget=a&amp;rewriteMime=image%2F*" /></a></div>Right kind of pedigree- Has played first division football, at a high level for Bulgarian overachievers Ludogorets. A side that gave both Liverpool and Real Madrid&nbsp;fits in the Champions League this past Fall.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" /></a></div>Wing back that would fit into Berhalter's system- Very similar type of game to Waylon Francis. Above average quickness, a good crosser of the ball.<br /><br /><br />In addition,&nbsp;Ludogorets play a similar, attractive&nbsp;passing out of the back game to Columbus Crew. I think Choco should be decently affordable. <br /><br />I believe Choco wasn't re-signed because <span dir="auto">Júnior Caiçara</span>, another Ludogorets Brazilian was preferred to him.&nbsp;But, with 71 appearances over three seasons, helping Ludogorets to three trophies, he may be worth a look, especially since he would cost nothing. <br /><br />Some extremely excellent crosses:<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="//player.vimeo.com/video/90490441" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe> <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.ceroacero.es/img/geral/18109_med_foto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ceroacero.es/img/geral/18109_med_foto.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>Braian Lluy, 25, Right&nbsp;Back.&nbsp;Out of Contract&nbsp;this upcoming&nbsp;June&nbsp;with Greek Super League side&nbsp;Asteras Tripolis.</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Boxes Braian Would Check Off:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" /></a></div>Right Age- 25<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" /></a></div>Right kind of pedigree- Has&nbsp;made over&nbsp;60 appearances&nbsp;for Racing in Argentina, and recently&nbsp;in the UEFA Europa League for Asteras Tripolis against Tottenham, Besiktas.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" /></a></div>Argentine factor- I would not be surprised if our new right back was Argentine as per condition with Federico Higuain signing. And that may not be a bad thing... When the Crew last won MLS Cup they had Guillermo Barros Schelotto and an Argentinian outside back in Gino Padula. Lluy is a similar build but a little more tidier on the ball.<br /><br />Asteras Tripolis plummeted out of the Europa League and as a result may be looking to sell off some pieces. Lluy has made about 60-70% percent of appearances, but could be dispersed with. If Berhalter can afford a transfer bid for Cedrick, I believe he could for Lluy.<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/n4wfleR1Pac" width="420"></iframe><br /><br />Other possible Argentinian Right Backs:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.ellitoral.com/diarios/2009/11/11/deportes/DEPO-01-web-images/1_fr_opt.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ellitoral.com/diarios/2009/11/11/deportes/DEPO-01-web-images/1_fr_opt.jpeg" height="214" width="320" /></a></div><br /><strong>Ismael Quilez, 26-</strong> Plays for a promotion side Aldosivi in the Argentina Primera. But, was <br />the right back when Federico Higuain played for Colon in Argentina before coming to the Columbus Crew. I'm sure Aldosivi doesn't have a big budget, and Quilez isn't exactly the most in demand Argentinian right back, but could still be serviceable and do the job for Columbus Crew SC. Would be an upgrade compared to last year's situation. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://letsbreakthegridlock.com/wp-content/themes/torontoboard/images/checkbox_checked.png" /></a></div>Former Higuain teammate- Big checkmark.<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/mpIk5GBeozs" width="420"></iframe><br /><br /><strong>Hugo Nervo, 24-</strong> Unlikely, too good, too consistent for Arsenal de Sarandi. Would have to take a major move to pry him away. Doubt the Crew will go that route, think someone like Quilez is more in their wheelhouse for a right back.<br /><br /><strong>Jonathon Ferrari, 27-</strong> Pretty solid defender, has done a lot of jumping around lately. Finally landed with Argentina Primera lower table side <span dir="auto">Atlético de Rafaela.</span><br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/5JDZ_L5lZ04" width="420"></iframe><br /><br /><strong>If the Crew want to take a flier, and go really cheap on the position. Here's a couple Argentine's for the job..</strong><br /><br /><strong>Pablo Barzola, 31-</strong> Very similar pedigree, resume to Gino Padula. Both&nbsp;made last stops&nbsp;in France. Hasn't really played much since moving to Argentinos Juniors, resurrected his career a bit in 2014 with more appearances but dispensable, cheap. Would&nbsp;probably be&nbsp;keen on a move to America. <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/3wd82nhq8_Y" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />Crew should possibly set their sights a bit higher.<br /><br />Santiago Hernan Villafane, 25- Plays up in the Danish Superliga for FC Midtjylland, in Gregg Berhalter's old neck of the woods. Wouldn't be expensive, hasn't played a lot. Has been with Boca Juniors, Real Madrid though. Could use a career resurrection, but also might be&nbsp;suffering&nbsp;from&nbsp;Freddy Adu syndrome.<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/99HrIRrqWCw" width="420"></iframe><br /><br />Who do you think would be the best, most feasible&nbsp;choice out of these South American options? Do you have a better player in mind? Do I have the wrong idea focusing mainly on Argentina? Comment here or on our twitter @CrewtureFanzine.<br /><br />http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/01/162015-crew-after-south-american-rb.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-3366744063462502307Mon, 05 Jan 2015 19:47:00 +00002015-01-05T19:09:22.718-08:001.5.2015: Osasuna Rejects Deal, Cedrick Not Keen On Columbus Move<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://sevilla.abc.es/deportes/alfinaldelapalmera/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Cedrick_Osasuna1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://sevilla.abc.es/deportes/alfinaldelapalmera/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Cedrick_Osasuna1.jpg" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://www.vavel.com/es/futbol/osasuna/432968-osasuna-frena-la-salida-de-cedrick-hacia-estados-unidos.html">Vavel Spain just reported</a> that although Real Betis may have accepted the Crew's transaction that neither the player or Osasuna want the deal to happen.<br /><br />The article states that Cedrick, at this point in his career, "frowns upon a move to MLS."<br /><br />Cedrick will stay with Osasuna until June, unless and big surprise,&nbsp;<b>Osasuna gets a bigger compensation on the deal. </b>Real Betis gave their blessing to reject the deal.<br /><br />Osasuna stated that Cedrick's speed and quality is scarce throughout the club and <b>unless they got a bigger deal </b>they want to keep him.<br /><br />According to the article, both Real Betis and Osasuna would have to accept the deal. Which is in line with this summary, <a href="http://thepit-se.com/2015/01/04/columbus-crew-linked-real-betis-lb-cedrick/">as according to Pit Sports</a>,&nbsp;both teams would be compensated for the transaction involving the Congolese winger.<br /><br />Either way, this seems to put the Cedrick move to Columbus Crew SC to bed, unless the Crew put more cash on the table. <br /><br />But, if the player isn't interested, it's probably best to move on to other options.http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/01/152015-osasuna-rejects-deal-cedrick-not.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-7621570884006730612Mon, 05 Jan 2015 00:16:00 +00002015-01-05T19:03:03.526-08:001.4.2015: Columbus Crew After La Liga Winger Cedrick<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img.vavel.com/images/Cedrick_Betis_mundodeportivo_884845425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img.vavel.com/images/Cedrick_Betis_mundodeportivo_884845425.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Reports out of Spain, have Columbus Crew SC giving <a href="http://www.betis.mobi/cedrick-un-paso-del-columbus/">22 year old Cedrick Mabwati a <strong>succulent </strong>offer</a>, that&nbsp;is&nbsp;for all parties&nbsp;nearly a done deal.&nbsp;The Congolese player has plied his trade in the first and second divisions of Spain for Athletico Madrid, Betis, Osasuna, and Numancia. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cedrick is a speedy versatile player, having played many positions including left back, left wing, and some central, attacking&nbsp;midfield. He has Dominic Oduro speed, but also has skill on the ball, he's&nbsp;an excellent dribbler. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">More than likely Cedrick will battle <span dir="auto">Kristinn Steindórsson for the left midfield spot left occupied from the departure of Bernardo Anor. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span dir="auto"></span>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span dir="auto">I like Cedrick's Spanish resume a bit more. I believe Steindorsson&nbsp;will be useful and get his&nbsp;share of games as a multiple-depth option throughout midfield; sort of as&nbsp;Meram has done throughout his Columbus career.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span dir="auto"></span>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span dir="auto">Another possibility is that Waylon Francis, who had a strong season in 2014, is on his way out for some reason, slotting Cedrick to left back. Or possibly&nbsp;Berhalter wants two speedy wing backs and&nbsp;Cedrick will be converted to right back to balance with Francis's speed on the left.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span dir="auto"></span>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span dir="auto">But the more than likely scenario is that Gregg Berhalter can't pass up all that speed, skill&nbsp;on one flank. Having Francis, who gives good service, overlapping Cedrick to seek out Kei Kamara with his crosses sounds like an optimally dangerous&nbsp;wing. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Whereas, on the other side, Ethan&nbsp;Finlay will likely win out and Meram will pop up in striker and midfield roles nearly every game.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span dir="auto"></span>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span dir="auto">In addition,&nbsp;if signed the price tag that a 22 year old winger, with La Liga and African Cup of Nations&nbsp;experience entails, would more than likely imply that he's&nbsp;the top man for our left side. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span dir="auto"></span>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span dir="auto">Speed, with ball skills on the wing, twenty-two years young, and has learned his game in Spain since the age of thirteen. I feel pretty comfortable with that sort of resume/move.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If that's not convincing enough, here's Cedrick&nbsp;taking it to&nbsp;Real Madrid a year ago: </div><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/YVGfNVORO8Y" width="560"></iframe> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Not sure how anyone could look at that and not be buzzing to see him in Columbus Crew Stadium.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A lot of Crew fans might be saying, another winger? Another midfielder? But, we lost Anor (typically on the left) and we bring in two guys to replace him. </div><br />I think&nbsp;it's not a bad situation&nbsp;to be stacked in midfield and to have options.<br /><br />If Gregg Berhalter can land a 22 year old winger, that has over 150 appearances in Spain, and not have to pay designated player money it may be one of his best signings yet.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">﻿</div><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/bnyyM8J94rA" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />Overall, it's an exciting move in my opinion, if it's real and&nbsp;happens.http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2015/01/142015-columbus-crew-after-la-liga.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-3690180367564494216Tue, 16 Dec 2014 21:44:00 +00002014-12-16T14:31:11.451-08:0012.16.2014: Gregg Berhalter Year One Journey, What To Expect In Year Two<img src="http://cdn.fansided.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/324/files/2014/10/giancarlo-gonzalez-gregg-berhalter-mls-houston-dynamo-columbus-crew1-850x560.jpg" height="419" width="640" /><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Gregg Berhalter started 2014 on fire,&nbsp;he was the talk of Major League Soccer&nbsp;with his tactics and attractive style of play; as well as a 3-0 record. </span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">He was&nbsp;anointed tactical king, a guru, perhaps even the great one on this side of the Atlantic.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><a href="http://www.topdrawersoccer.com/the91stminute/2014/03/the-mls-grinder-how-gregg-berhalter-is-making-the-crew-new-again/"><span style="font-size: large;">TopDrawer Soccer</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> announced Berhalter's work as revolutionary three games in:</span><br /><br /><i>What Berhalter has done to the Crew over the course of the&nbsp;first three games of the season has been nothing short of revolutionary.&nbsp;</i><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Most young MLS coaches – especially those in their first year because MLS hires unnaturally young – come upon league gates frowning down upon them, and only men like Peter Vermes and Jason Kreis and Bruce Arena stare back from the other side. Most young coaches opt to scale the craggy earthworks to either side, content to play it safe in lieu of attacking ideas. There are few in the league’s history who’ve had the temerity to take the gates head on. Berhalter appears to be one such man.</span></i> </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Gregg Berhalter's&nbsp;praise machine was in high speed. But, then the Crew&nbsp;tanked&nbsp;in their next eight games, losing four and tying four.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Columbus&nbsp;finally&nbsp;got a 'W'&nbsp;against third division&nbsp;Dayton Dutch Lions the next time out.&nbsp;</span><a href="http://sportsfranchises.sportsblog.com/posts/1411888/dayton_dutch_lions_drop_down_to_pdl.html"><span style="font-size: large;">A team that after this season&nbsp;may no longer exist professionally</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> and who struggled in the standings in their lower division.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Nine outings and only one win against the Dutch Lions. If were talking about breaking gates, Berhalter went from looking like Gene Hackman in The Heist, to Joe Pesci in Home Alone 2.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">It was starting to look like that time, for the Crew fans known for their patience, to start the <em>Fire Gregg Berhalter</em> thread on Bigsoccer.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">I think every Crew coach has had that honor, some multiple times.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">The Dutch Lions win, led to another win the&nbsp;next game against Chicago. Then, the Crew went on to lose four more games and tie four more.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><a href="http://forums.bigsoccer.com/threads/sack-berhalter.2008323/"><span style="font-size: large;">And the thread was officially alive and well</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Since going 3-0, the Crew were 1-8-8 in Major League Soccer in the following&nbsp;17 games. Ouch.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">But, give Berhalter credit for resilience. </span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Since that low point, the Crew finished the season 10-3-2, rolling into the playoffs. </span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Talk about a <em>massive</em>&nbsp;turnaround. </span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">In 2015, Berhalter will be looking for more consistency, compared to&nbsp;the roller coaster season his Crew embarked on in 2014.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">But, a good sign is that the locker room never turned or gave up belief in Berhalter's plan. </span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Throughout the season, opposing teams always said <em>"the Crew will play out of the back, they'll play their game, no matter if their down 1-0 early or up 2-0. They're trying to play their game, their&nbsp;system no matter what."</em></span><br /><em><span style="font-size: large;"></span></em><br /><span style="font-size: large;">In addition, Berhalter seems to have the right pulse on&nbsp;signing new players.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Crew fans would've perhaps liked more signings, especially up at striker. Yet, have to give Berhalter credit for not signing&nbsp;players that he didn't believe were a.) a fit or b.) would've got the job done. </span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">On the other hand, when Berhalter did make a move,&nbsp;they were&nbsp;100% percent the right guys. </span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">-Michael Parkhurst, the consummate professional with US National Team experience.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">-Steve Clark, who was brought in to replace the popular Andy Greunebaum and was 100% percent the right guy and then some. </span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">-Giancarlo Gonzalez, who wasn't well known but played well for Columbus,&nbsp;exploded onto the scene with Costa Rica in the World Cup, and was signed by Palermo for a nice transfer fee;&nbsp;where he scored the game winner in his first game for Palermo.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">-Waylon Francis, Has done well but perhaps can be more attributed to Brian Bliss's work before he left.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;">-Emmanuel Pogatetz, didn't really get put into the mix as a late signing. But, great experience. Hopefully, he can make a strong partnership with Parkhurst in 2015.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">No misfires yet. Which compared to Warzycha, so far so good; as Sergio Herrera (was a complete misfire) and Andres Mendoza (could've been not the best guy for a locker room).</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">For&nbsp;next season, Berhalter&nbsp;has signed Swedish defensive midfielder Mohammed Saeid, former MLSer' Kei Kamara,&nbsp;and Icelandic winger Kristinn Steindórsson. In addition, he has graduated Ben Swanson to the first team.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Saeid and Steindorsson look like guys who will battle for starting positions and/or depth.&nbsp;In addition, there&nbsp;should still be more space for further key acquisitions. </span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Overall, I'm excited for the first year of CCSC. I think Berhalter will get the guys that will fit into his system and the Crew will be better overall for it in 2015.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">I also think the ability to get over a rocky middle of the season, go 10-3-2 to finish&nbsp;the year, and make the playoffs for the first time since 2011 is something to build on. 2014 could've been a lot worse, Berhalter sticking to his plan turned it around.</span>http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2014/12/12162014-gregg-berhalter-year-one.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-2293128664934695758Mon, 13 Oct 2014 18:37:00 +00002014-10-13T11:37:50.738-07:0010.13.2014: Crewture Fanzine WeeklyTalking about the Crew rebrand, Kei Kamara signing, the electric comeback, and Ethan Finlay. Also, could the Crew lure LD out of retirement with Frankie Hejduk and Gregg Berhalter.<BR><BR><iframe src="//player.vimeo.com/video/108769670" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen allowfullscreen></iframe>http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2014/10/10132014-crewture-fanzine-weekly.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-6300178207543545414Wed, 13 Aug 2014 08:12:00 +00002014-08-13T01:14:09.636-07:008.13.2014: NASL Clubs Making Bigger Striker Moves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/sport/Pix/columnists/2009/10/28/1256767083662/Roque-Santa-Cruz-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/sport/Pix/columnists/2009/10/28/1256767083662/Roque-Santa-Cruz-001.jpg" height="384" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The New York Cosmos, who play in the NASL to not exactly remarkable crowds at Hofstra University's Soccer Stadium. Can not only <i>reportedly</i>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.empireofsoccer.com/report-malaga-striker-28053/">afford to go after Roque Santa-Cruz</a>, offering him from various reports $1 million to $2 million; But, can also afford to pay a transfer fee to get him out of his contract that runs with Malaga until 2016.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Meanwhile, a division higher in Major League Soccer at our club, whose revenue isn't amazing, but has to be better than renting out a mid-level university stadium with over 9,000 less seats... crickets on the forward front.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Not saying Roque Santa-Cruz would make sense at all, the focus isn't likely to ever be on a player that needs two years of a contract bought out. But, identify a target that will work in your system, put a serious offer on the table, attempt to make it into the playoffs. And then role that momentum into next year's re-brand.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>That hopefully will not be going on in the middle of a desert.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Or ride it out with injury-riddled Arrieta, and an inexperienced Bedell, and Schoenfeld.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">If the front office is okay with that route, I see the Crew missing out on the postseason again.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2014/08/8132014-nasl-clubs-making-bigger.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-7982843029767026718Wed, 13 Aug 2014 07:36:00 +00002014-08-13T00:38:41.991-07:008.13.2014: TV Show Shoutout<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WknvgpThagw/U-sPbQSKJtI/AAAAAAAACQs/ODEvY0J3z44/s1600/crewunion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WknvgpThagw/U-sPbQSKJtI/AAAAAAAACQs/ODEvY0J3z44/s1600/crewunion.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm sure some have saw this shout out. But, Fox's new show <b>"Red Band Society,"</b> a drama about a group of kids in a hospital, has a character that sports a Columbus Crew shirt in the show preview.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Specifically, a <i>Crew Union</i> shirt, which isn't shabby publicity for one of the three core supporter groups of the <i>Nordeck.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In the scene in question, it appears both kids played soccer and one has lost his leg to cancer, and the other is in the process of going through the same thing.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Anyways, live and in living color at 2:03 in this YouTube video:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/JPEI4CnAC4c" width="560"></iframe></div>http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2014/08/8132014-tv-show-shoutout.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-7269964978417508494Thu, 07 Aug 2014 13:58:00 +00002015-01-05T19:14:32.222-08:008.7.2014: What A Mix Up.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GAguVGgObRk/U-N3aQzuYnI/AAAAAAAACQc/RBcky41JUgE/s1600/mix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GAguVGgObRk/U-N3aQzuYnI/AAAAAAAACQc/RBcky41JUgE/s1600/mix.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>The Mix Up isn't really with the Mix nixing of the deal. But, that Columbus, instead of focusing on real needs,&nbsp;is so desperate to go after US National team players that will likely give us little impact.</em></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So the Columbus Crew offered U.S. National Team player Mix Diskerud $1 million dollars (or close to it), in a contract that hit a snag yesterday.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mix currently makes around <strong>$300,000 dollars</strong> playing for Rosenborg in Norway.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The snag&nbsp;was <strong>rumored to be</strong>&nbsp;that Diskerud's dad/agent Paal Diskerud&nbsp;said his son "needs more money." Which really&nbsp;could&nbsp;be&nbsp;Mix's words too, because if Mix really wants to play in Columbus for <strong>$1 Million</strong>&nbsp;he would be like, "come on dad, this is what I want."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But, should Columbus of ever put themselves into this position? Seeing that the older Diskerud pulled his son <strong>allegedly</strong>&nbsp;out of a transfer with the Portland Timbers two years back? Both times&nbsp;Mix would've made&nbsp;exceedingly more money than&nbsp;he makes now.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Which means one of two things? Either the Diskerud's are crazy or Norway is so much better than Columbus, Ohio that one rather make $700,000 less to live there.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hmm.. Hopefully Diskerud,&nbsp;during his time in Columbus with the US Nats,&nbsp;was able&nbsp;to see some area's away from the stadium; other than the Lowe's, Big Boy's, railroad,&nbsp;and the low income housing around <em>stadia Crew</em>. If he thought he would have to reside there, I would probably choose Norway too.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Either way, why are the Columbus Crew so <em>keen</em> on going after a Mix Diskerud or Sasha Klejistan? &nbsp;Why can't we just offer <strong>$1 Million </strong>for some striker, somewhere, that can score goals. I can almost guarantee (if we still have scouts) that there is someone that for $1 million bucks, can come to America (were still the promised land, right?), and give us some goals. <em>And no I'm not talking about Papadopoulous.</em> I'm talking about a million for someone that has an upside, and will blossom here.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sure, Diskerud would've been a nice look for a while. Maybe Klejistan, too. But, it's not like it's Altidore. It's really not Kaka, Villa, or Lampard. It's not a big name signing. Interest would've faded in a couple of weeks. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What doesn't fade is winning, and a good style of play. We need to insert players that win us games.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not fawn over every mid-level US National teamer, throwing our script of needs to the way side when they come available,&nbsp;saying "woo, we had someone call us, a big time US National Team player," who didn't even make the World Cup squad. I.e. <em>Sasha Klejistan. </em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Are we serious?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What's the big draw there? Klejistan has played for Chivas USA and Anderlecht, what's the big news here? What's the&nbsp;reason to leak that unless something comes from it? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's big news if were attached to Gareth Bale,&nbsp;quite noteworthy even if nothing comes from it. But, Sasha Klejistan or Mix Diskerud inquire about the Crew? Woo. <em>Massive club</em> we are lol.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Look. What we need our a few no name strikers that can put some goals in the back of the net and have us win consistently again. What we don't need is an okay US National Team&nbsp;midfielder, that we try to fit everything around, and yet he isn't a striker nor can score us goals.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">To be honest I'm not sure if either is worth <strong>$1 million, </strong>other than that US National Team by their name that makes them worth that to just MLS.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sure it's nice that US National Team players are coming back to MLS. But, I hope the league isn't forcing teams to acquire them. The focus should be on playing good soccer and winning for every team, if a US National Teamer fits into that <em>mix&nbsp;</em>for a MLS club&nbsp;so be it. But, it's not going to always be the instant ingredient to success. It's just going to make you feel better for a while, until you miss the playoffs again because you have no one who can score!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When the Portland Timbers missed out on Mix Diskerud, they replaced him with the target of&nbsp;Diego Valeri. I would take a Valeri right now any day. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So hopefully the Crew go in a similar direction.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GLn2v0frE4M/VKtS-A_t4iI/AAAAAAAACTY/MhEQtt5sn1k/s1600/crewture2014posts.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GLn2v0frE4M/VKtS-A_t4iI/AAAAAAAACTY/MhEQtt5sn1k/s1600/crewture2014posts.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">﻿</div><em></em><br />http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2014/08/872014-what-mix-up.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-7994372425402459250Tue, 29 Jul 2014 03:15:00 +00002014-07-28T20:56:16.606-07:007.28.2014: Emmanuel Dapaa Should Be Crew Academy Target<div data-redactor="1"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gT9lvkQFXvY/U9cMuQPxbeI/AAAAAAAACQM/7HSjwNYtADI/s1600/dapaa.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gT9lvkQFXvY/U9cMuQPxbeI/AAAAAAAACQM/7HSjwNYtADI/s1600/dapaa.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Columbus, Ohio area player Emmanuel Dapaa had 8 goals in 4 games at US Youth Soccer Championship <br />at U16 level&nbsp;this past week.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>7.28.2014: Emmanuel Dapaa Should Be Crew Academy Target</strong><br /><strong>By Ryan Kozlowski, Crewture Editor</strong><br /><br />Here's a signing the Columbus Crew should make in their backyard for the&nbsp;Youth Academy. <br /><br />16 year old<strong> Emmanuel Dapaa,</strong> who&nbsp;plays for Ohio Premier out of <strong>Dublin, Ohio</strong>. A&nbsp;suburb just miles away from Crew Stadium. <br /><br /><strong>Dapaa</strong>, a youngster who would be eligible to play for the United States (grew up here since three), Italy (was born there), or Ghana (parents are from there), was the leading goalscorer in the&nbsp;US Youth Soccer Championship&nbsp;(at all levels)&nbsp;with 8 goals. Oh, and he did that without playing the first game! <br /><br />Eight&nbsp;goals in&nbsp;four games at the U16 National Championship isn't bad for a weeks work.<br /><br />Also, Dapaa carried his side completely on his back. His impact&nbsp;was displayed&nbsp;the two times OPE matched up with the #1 ranked U16 side Baltimore Celtic. <br /><br />The game&nbsp;Dapaa missed, A 4-1 loss to Baltimore Celtic to open the tournament for OPE, was a lot closer in the final when the two sides met again with <em>Eman </em>present. <br /><br />In the rematch Dapaa, tied up the&nbsp;U16 final&nbsp;on a free kick,&nbsp;and&nbsp;kept&nbsp;OPE in the game for 110 minutes&nbsp;for a&nbsp;1-1 result after extra time; but the Ohio Premier Eagles eventually succumbed 4-2&nbsp;on PKs to the Celts.<br /><br />Prior to Dapaa's breakout in this tournament, he&nbsp;had the 2013 Goal of the Year in US Youth Soccer.&nbsp;Also, a ridiculous&nbsp;38 goals and 15 assists in his&nbsp;Ohio high school season&nbsp;last year,&nbsp;the most goals in 2013 in&nbsp;any&nbsp;Ohio High School Division.&nbsp;<em>Eman</em> also <a href="http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/sports/2013/10/23/gahanna-christian-sophomore-dazzles.html">supposedly has had contact with Manchester United</a>.<br /><br />This past week, I saw Dapaa play twice. I&nbsp;filmed or produced 14 games from the&nbsp;U14 to U19 levels&nbsp;at the US Youth Soccer National Championships in Germantown, Maryland, 2 of Dapaa's. Dapaa was one of two or three players that really stood out for me.</div><div data-redactor="1">&nbsp;</div><div data-redactor="1">Start at 2:21 (I filmed the flip celebration on his second goal, one of the better goals of this tournament):</div><div data-redactor="1">&nbsp;</div><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/7cvX0YSYEbU" width="560"></iframe><br /><div data-redactor="1">&nbsp;</div><div data-redactor="1">Dapaa, and a similar striker for Baltimore Celtic, are who US Soccer should be fast tracking to the National Team. Also, a U-14 Striker Andrew Carleton.<br /><br />Why&nbsp;go after German-Americans for the future, when there&nbsp;are Americans out there like Dapaa and Carleton (who is with the USMNT U14's)&nbsp;that&nbsp;could be focused on or groomed&nbsp;to be strikers that the&nbsp;National Team is missing. <br /><br />Hopefully, since this is the US Youth Soccer National Championship,&nbsp;Dapaa is getting a look&nbsp;as well.&nbsp;Kids like this should be in MLS&nbsp;academies, until they can make the next steps to MLS and the USMNT.</div><div data-redactor="1">&nbsp;</div><div data-redactor="1">Further, if the Crew don't know or care to get this kid in their backyard. They should probably just close their doors. Dapaa is an exciting player. If you're not interested in getting exciting strikers into your academy, and eventually on your first team, what's your business?<br /><br />But, possibly it's not the Crew who don't want Dapaa, but Dapaa that doesn't want the Crew <strong>yet</strong>. According to a youth soccer parent, the Crew Academy, despite being free, isn't very attractive in the lower youth levels.<br /><blockquote><em>Eman is the real deal as they like to say. I've watched him play against my son's teams since roughly u12. Despite what you think, the best kids in Columbus/Ohio don't play for the Crew DA at the u-16 level. I can't comment on the older u-18 group because I haven't seen the kids over the last few years since my son is u-16 this year. I've watched the last 2 years of the Crew DA team play and know almost all the kids because my son has played or guest played with or against them...even the Crew Challenger ones that were brought in this November after their high school seasons ended. They seem to have made an impact and stabilized the team a bit although they are sitting in 3rd from last place in the table.</em><br /><em></em><br /><em>OP U-16 would handle the Crew DA pretty easily in my opinion. We'll never know though. In the U-15 age group Lesh's Blast team is far superior to anything the Crew has as well. You probably find this hard to believe but the top players in Ohio South aren't all clamoring to play DA for the Crew. Lot's of kids want to do multiple sports, play with and in front of friends in HS and maybe have steered clear for other reasons. I know a lot of unhappy Crew Pre-Academy families from the last year or two. Just for the record my son has never played Gold, Pre-Acad or DA but some of his ex-teammates have or still do.</em></blockquote>If this comment was a shot on net, it would be right&nbsp;on target. <br /><br />If Dapaa played for the Crew now he would have to give up high school soccer, high school basketball, and playing with the OP Eagles. All things he currently enjoys doing.<br /><br />But, around 17 or 18, when he might need a few years of Major League Soccer&nbsp;before possibly jumping over to Europe, maybe then Dapaa makes the switch.<br /><br />I doubt&nbsp;<em>Eman</em> is anywhere near&nbsp;as good at basketball as he is at soccer. If he also had LeBron potential that would be amusing, but I'm going to just go out on a limb and say he doesn't.&nbsp;So, eventually when it comes to a future, near graduation,&nbsp;he's going to have to seek out either the Columbus Crew or somewhere else.<br /><br />If I was at Columbus Crew, or even my previous colleagues at&nbsp;Dayton Dutch Lions, where their whole money deal is (or was) trying to eventually sell kids to Europe to make money&nbsp;(and they have some connections overseas) I would be after this kid like Nick Saban after an Alabama blue chip. Hell, the kid was in the <em>Columbus Dispatch</em> for possible tryouts with Manchester United feeder clubs. What do you need to do to&nbsp;say "hello, I'm good over here?"<br /><br />Does&nbsp;Dapaa need to score 10&nbsp;goals in the US&nbsp;U16 Club Championship? Before you offer him and his entire family and friends free season tickets and access to anyone he wants.&nbsp;Either&nbsp;club should be bending over backward for this kid, because it's smart for business. <br /><br />Even DDL, although MLS play is about 50 times more attractive than USL Pro obviously, could try to groom the kid for two more years, give him a year of USL Pro to dominate, then transfer him overseas. Or Columbus can give him a few years of MLS and do the same. <br /><br />But, if OP Eagles are giving him the ability to be on the biggest stage at the U16 club level, and Columbus or Dayton cannot, then why move?<br /><br />Either way, it still should be a priority of the Crew at that level.<br /><br />Smart transfers are a good business model. The unheard of Giancarlo Gonzalez, when the Crew signed him, ended up being a World Cup defensive standout for Costa Rica. That was a&nbsp;smart transfer&nbsp;for Columbus; in for probably $250,000, <strong>out for&nbsp;possibly $5 million.</strong><br /><br />So would a kid like this in another way, as&nbsp;Dapaa has the potential in three or four years of being attractive to someone in Europe. <br /><br />So, say the Columbus Crew lure him for free, four years down the road they&nbsp;could snag&nbsp;$4 million for him.<br /><br />Yet, because most of the money goes to <strong>MLS&nbsp;MAIN </strong>when one of these transfers occur, I feel like there isn't as much of an emphasis on these two type of moves by MLS teams. Even if it helps the club for a couple of years on the field, do&nbsp;MLS teams&nbsp;get enough to do whatever it takes to grab these players?&nbsp;A&nbsp;greater free market economy in MLS, and more benefits for these moves (like getting 100% percent of the transfer) would lead to more growth and more ambitious owners in this league, doing everything in their power to get youth players like Dapaa and making more transfers like Giancarlo.<br /><br />Either way, Crew or elsewhere,&nbsp;I think you'll hear more from this kid down the road.<br />&nbsp;</div>http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2014/07/7282014-emmanuel-dapaa-should-be-crew.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-3320548256018332915Thu, 01 May 2014 16:10:00 +00002014-05-01T10:07:52.964-07:005.1.2014: Player Profile- Not on the Radar, College Student Athlete Becomes Major League Soccer Starter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.dispatch.com/content/graphics/2014/04/27/17-crew-4-27-sg-17.jpg?__scale=w:700,h:500,t:1,c:ffffff,q:80,r:2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.dispatch.com/content/graphics/2014/04/27/17-crew-4-27-sg-17.jpg?__scale=w:700,h:500,t:1,c:ffffff,q:80,r:2" height="456" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Pic by Sam Greene/Columbus Dispatch</em></span><br /><strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Player Profile- Not on the Radar, College Student Athlete&nbsp;Becomes Major League Soccer Starter</span></strong><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">By Ryan Kozlowski</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Crewture Editor</span><br /><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></b><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Josh Williams was very close&nbsp;from&nbsp;never receiving the opportunity to become a professional player.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The right back,&nbsp;who has&nbsp;become&nbsp;the senior member of the 2014 Columbus Crew with over 60 appearances, under normal circumstances would've&nbsp;never&nbsp;received the&nbsp;chance to impress.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">An unexpected phone call and a decision to answer in 2010&nbsp;changed that.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Williams was in a college class at Cleveland State, an unknown number called. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Could've been a telemarketer. A creditor. But, for some reason Williams answered. It was&nbsp;Crew's Coach Brian Bliss.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.thecrew.com/sites/columbus/files/imagecache/620x350/image_nodes/2013/09/Bliss2vHOU.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.thecrew.com/sites/columbus/files/imagecache/620x350/image_nodes/2013/09/Bliss2vHOU.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>Bliss called Williams, out of the blue, in 2010.</em></div><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bliss was&nbsp;on the phone&nbsp;because he wanted to <em>possibly</em> sign Josh. Bliss&nbsp;wanted the unknown&nbsp;Josh to be ready to be a backup signing in a hour for Major League Soccer's Columbus Crew, <em>if</em> another deal fell through on deadline day.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One could only imagine Williams reaction crouched in his class room.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On most days..&nbsp;Josh wouldn't have answered an unknown number in the middle of class, could of let it go to voice mail, and continued to listen to </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">his Sport Management lecture that afternoon.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If he did the usual, not answer his phone in class,&nbsp;chances are Josh Williams wouldn't be a Major League Soccer player today. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Josh likely&nbsp;would've instead&nbsp;struggled to get a foot in the door of the management side of sports,&nbsp;where six figure salaries are reserved only&nbsp;for upper management.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But,&nbsp;in a stroke of good fortune a higher profile, overseas signing&nbsp;did fall through on that day.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One Kwaku Nyamekye who never kicked a ball professionally and&nbsp;is&nbsp;now a&nbsp;trade support analyst in&nbsp;oil.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;">Appears that one worked out for Williams, the Crew, and perhaps even Kwaku.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://cdn87.psbin.com/img/mw=700/mh=420/cr=y/d=tfku0/shaat6792z3ik1vr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn87.psbin.com/img/mw=700/mh=420/cr=y/d=tfku0/shaat6792z3ik1vr.jpg" height="192" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kwaku Nyamekye</span></em></div><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now&nbsp;Williams, who was at the first Crew game in 1996 as an 8 year old fan,&nbsp;has over 60 appearances for the club that he has always followed.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Josh&nbsp;often took the&nbsp;road less traveled to get there.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Josh could've played baseball at Division I colleges. He </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">had&nbsp;full rides to&nbsp;Kentucky and West Virginia.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But, Josh wanted to play soccer and went to the only place that would give him the same opportunity, Cleveland State.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Most would not turn down a Kentucky Wildcat or Mountaineer uniform for a Horizon league one. But, Josh did.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Following a successful career at Cleveland State, Josh played lower division soccer with the Cleveland Internationals and&nbsp;received semi-chances with the Crew in reserve exhibitions. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That is how the Columbus Crew's Brian Bliss became accustomed with the hard working Williams, mainly because he was in the area and persistent. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When those chances occurred with Columbus reserves luck played a role with Williams.&nbsp;Injuries gave Williams an opportunity to get on the field.</span><br /><br /><img src="http://internationalsoccernetwork.com/josh%20williams.jpg" /><br /><i>At Cleveland State</i><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And apparently that was enough to be a last second signing.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But, Bliss&nbsp;won't take&nbsp;full credit for the discovery of Williams.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"Josh wasn't really on our radar, but we knew him," Bliss recalls. "He did OK in those college games (with the Crew). His geographic location was a big part of it." </span></em><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For the next four seasons, Josh has been a starter for the Columbus Crew.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Not bad for someone who wasn't on&nbsp;a team's&nbsp;radar.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Was only signed because another deal fell through.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He was geographically close.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And he picked up his phone.</span><br /><br /><img src="http://www.thecrew.com/sites/columbus/files/imagecache/620x350/image_nodes/2012/05/williams_vancouver.jpg" />http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2014/05/512014-player-profile-not-on-radar.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-3080504158829983783Thu, 01 May 2014 16:03:00 +00002014-05-01T10:19:47.284-07:005.1.2014: Player Profile- The Confident, Acrobatic Steve Clark's Soccer Journey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v_L6K9ZcOUE/U2JvcpGOLQI/AAAAAAAACO8/CiW1J_48P4A/s1600/Clark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v_L6K9ZcOUE/U2JvcpGOLQI/AAAAAAAACO8/CiW1J_48P4A/s1600/Clark.jpg" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">﻿</div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <em>Pic by Sam Fahmi</em></span><br /><em><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"></span></em><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Player Profile- The Confident, Acrobatic Steve Clark's Soccer Journey</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">By Ryan Kozlowski, Crewture Editor</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In February 2010, Steve Clark was on his way to Norway with Honefoss BK, after&nbsp;his visa permit&nbsp;was denied to&nbsp;move to League One&nbsp;Bradford City and a Stabaek deal fizzled out. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">England International Keeper, turned&nbsp;Bradford City goalkeeper coach Nigel Martyn at the time&nbsp;told Clark to </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"keep going."</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I believe in your training habits and instinct and ability." </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;">Martyn, with 680 caps&nbsp;at&nbsp;Leeds United, Everton, and Crystal Palace,&nbsp;rated Clark. Clark took confidence from this.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Clark kept going, and found a home in Norway&nbsp;through what he was known&nbsp;for during his stay there, his A</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">merican determination.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Clark&nbsp;set up, or rather engineered&nbsp;a trial himself. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"On Tuesday, I called Honefoss after hearing a deal with Stabaek's second choice goalkeeper fell through."</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Clark was training at the time with Stabaek.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"So, I asked if they needed a goalkeeper and here we are."</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_IwW4JEO3F4/U2JoW1N6WeI/AAAAAAAACOs/Mmc4m7RgPa8/s1600/nigel.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_IwW4JEO3F4/U2JoW1N6WeI/AAAAAAAACOs/Mmc4m7RgPa8/s1600/nigel.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">England former international Nigel Martyn had 23 caps with the Three Lions.</span></em></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This inner-confidence to seal a deal with Honefoss&nbsp;wasn't built&nbsp;completely by&nbsp;Martyn's words, but also from Clark's former stops; as Clark signed and didn't forget where he came from.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I thank my coaches at <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on"><span id="role_document" style="color: black;">Oakland</span></placename> </place> <place w:st="on"><placetype w:st="on"><span id="role_document" style="color: black;">University</span></placetype> </place><span id="role_document" style="color: black;">that helped give me the confidence to believe in myself."</span></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Clark, as an All-American, led Oakland to two NCAA appearances.</span><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I also want to thank the Michigan Bucks ownership and coaches for everything they have done to help me get my first pro contract last year.&nbsp;My four years with the Bucks&nbsp;went a long way to&nbsp;prepare me for what life was going to be like in the real world having to go out and fight for a job in pro soccer.&nbsp; I will always cherish my experience with the Bucks and will make them proud of me over here."</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Bucks goalkeeper, with over 75 appearances as a&nbsp;PDL regular season and playoff champion, did just that.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He helped Honefoss to promotion, and then&nbsp;his stellar goalkeeping&nbsp;kept Honefoss, expected&nbsp;to go straight back down, in the League. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Clark was named the Tippeligaen Goalkeeper of the Year in 2012. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I think the way you get league Best XI is to not want to get league Best XI."</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Clark's attitude and play has led to him being the best wherever he has played.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"You can't want something so badly or else you'll end up fearing failure on gameday.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you can compartmentalize your thoughts, you can make big gains in your game."</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Clark, who&nbsp;played every game for Honefoss from 2011 to 2013, is making big gains in Major League Soccer so far with Columbus.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Will his 2014 lead to another BEST XI? </span><span style="font-family: Arial;">Will a few years in MLS lead to bigger things?</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I've always dreamed of playing in the Bundesliga."</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"I'll be the first one to tell you, I'm not at that level yet, but maybe in a couple years. Maybe not, but I'm certainly going to shoot for it."</span><br /><span style="font-size: 12px;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"></span></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">I wouldn't count against Steve Clark.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;">But,&nbsp;first let's hope&nbsp;he leads Columbus to some playoff success.</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><span id="role_document" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">&nbsp; </span></span>http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2014/05/512014-player-profile-confident.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3564618031518347764.post-2730690028644657046Wed, 30 Apr 2014 18:21:00 +00002014-04-30T11:31:46.019-07:004.30.2014: Road Games Crucial For Columbus<span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;"><strong>4.30.2014: Road Games Crucial For Columbus</strong></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;"><strong>By Ryan Kozlowski, Crewture Editor</strong></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;">The Columbus Crew started out the season with a surprise three wins. Gregg Berhalter was described as a new genius, an American special one.</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kBRSwyJB9zA/U2E6klPLHZI/AAAAAAAACOc/kqZb8GRlLM8/s1600/Jose-Mourinho-Wallpaper-HD-01-1024x681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kBRSwyJB9zA/U2E6klPLHZI/AAAAAAAACOc/kqZb8GRlLM8/s1600/Jose-Mourinho-Wallpaper-HD-01-1024x681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kBRSwyJB9zA/U2E6klPLHZI/AAAAAAAACOc/kqZb8GRlLM8/s1600/Jose-Mourinho-Wallpaper-HD-01-1024x681.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div><br /><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;">Awe, you making me laugh Soccer America.</span></em><br /><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;"></span></em><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;">Since then, the Columbus Crew have puttered to 3 points out of a possible 12. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;">Surprisingly, in an inept East, that 12 points is good enough for first place. But, it shouldn't be good enough for Berhalter or his charges. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;">Out of those four games, three were at home. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;">One was a tactically bad 2-0 loss to a depleted Toronto FC (where most Toronto fans on forums were predicting a 3-nil defeat), one was a last second&nbsp;comeback tie&nbsp;with DC United at home (who&nbsp;Columbus dismantled a month prior away), and one was&nbsp;two points surrendered&nbsp;after a good start against New York Red Bull.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;">Two points, at home, out of the last&nbsp;nine isn't going to do it this year. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;">The Crew are surviving on their 9 out of 9 points from their first three outings.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">They are in first place, but there's <em>only </em>four teams one point behind them.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">And a couple more so-so performances on the road will finally see the Crew start dropping down the standings.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Good news is, so far in 2014 Columbus has been better on the road,&nbsp;picking up 7 out of their 9 road points.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">These two road games will show a lot, whether Columbus will be a top team or find themselves just outside of the playoffs again.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, &quot;Times New Roman&quot;, serif; font-size: large;">Keys for Columbus:</span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">1.) They need to get that crucial second goal, Columbus has won every game once they've put in a second goal. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">The defense isn't solid enough yet to win 1-0&nbsp;and minimize that one&nbsp;lapse in concentration on defense.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">2.) Arrieta, Oduro need to get going offensively. Not just with penalty kicks.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">3.) Columbus needs to win these two games and then stop saving it for the road. Columbus had the opportunity to give themselves a nice lead in the East at home, now they rely on road games to keep themselves near the top. </span>http://crewonespot.blogspot.com/2014/04/4302014-road-games-crucial-for-columbus.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Ryan Kozlowski)0